Read More

A similar exemption was put in place following a fire affecting Victoria’s nightclub on Sauchiehall Street in March.

Speaking on BBC Good Morning Scotland, Cllr Aitken said “businesses have to be proactive and contact the council to secure the zero rating”.

She added that it was impossible to say how long the safety cordon, and therefore the non-domestic rates exemption, would be in place.

Cllr Aitken said she is convening a meeting this afternoon with a number of partners, including business representatives, to put a plan in place for the future of Sauchiehall Street.

Businesses in the area, including the Garage nightclub and the Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA), have spoken of their concern about the potential longer-term impact of the fire, as well as the immediate fall-out.

Read More

"I'm encouraging anyone in that position to apply - and our officers will be able to give advice on how to do that."

Hisashi Kuboyama, FSB’s Development Manager for the West of Scotland, said: “This is a smart move from the council and should give some city centre independent businesses extra help at a time when they need it most. What will be important is that help is available for firms beyond the so-called exclusion zones.

“Also, it was heartening to see council officers out in force today, getting in touch with traders and hearing about the need to keep local businesses up to date. As new plans are developed to turn around this part of the city, decision-makers must ensure local small businesses are involved at every stage.”

Businesses within the Glasgow School of Art safety cordon should contact Business Glasgow at or 0141 276 5333.